Frying Pan Lake is located in the Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley, near Rotorua on New Zealand's North Island. It holds the title of the largest hot spring in the world by surface area.
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| Frying Pan Lake |
Key Facts About Frying Pan Lake
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Location: Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley, New Zealand
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Surface Area: Around 38,000 square meters (9.4 acres)
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Average Depth: 6 meters (20 feet); up to 20 meters (66 feet) near geothermal vents
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Water Temperature: Ranges between 50°C and 60°C (122°F to 140°F)
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pH Level: Around 3.8 (acidic)
How Frying Pan Lake Was Formed
Frying Pan Lake sits inside Echo Crater, which was created during the massive Mount Tarawera eruption of 1886. However, the lake itself only formed after a later hydrothermal eruption in 1917, which filled Echo Crater with water from rain and geothermal sources.
What Makes Frying Pan Lake Special
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Continuous Steam: The lake constantly emits steam and gases like carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, creating a mystical, foggy atmosphere.
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Colorful Terraces: Surrounding the lake, you’ll see vibrant mineral formations, adding to the surreal landscape.
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Dynamic Changes: The geothermal system under the lake is still active, and features like water levels and temperature can fluctuate slightly.
Visiting Frying Pan Lake
You can visit Frying Pan Lake by hiking the Waimangu walking tracks, a self-guided trail system through the geothermal valley.
Highlights of the visit include:
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Boardwalk views over steaming waters
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Nearby features like Inferno Crater Lake, Cathedral Rocks, and hot streams
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Easy to moderate trails suited for different fitness levels
Tip:
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and magical lighting over the steam.
Quick FAQs
Is Frying Pan Lake safe to swim in?
No, due to its high temperature and acidity, swimming is prohibited.
Is it accessible year-round?
Yes! The Waimangu Valley is open throughout the year.
How long is the hike to Frying Pan Lake?
Depending on the route, it can take 1–2 hours (easy to moderate walking).
Conclusion
Frying Pan Lake is not only the largest hot spring on Earth but also one of New Zealand’s most unique geothermal wonders.
If you're visiting Rotorua or Taupō, make sure to include the Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley in your itinerary — it's a once-in-a-lifetime landscape filled with otherworldly beauty!